Faculty Spotlight: Nawaraj Shrestha

Nawaraj Shrestha, Geospatial Science Specialist
Nawaraj Shrestha, Geospatial Science Specialist
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What is your background before coming to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

I grew up in the mountains of Nepal and moved to the United States to pursue a doctorate at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. My research primarily involves using remote sensing, statistics, and machine learning to measure and monitor dynamic water and water-bearing elements such as mesic habitats (wetlands, riparian vegetation, and meadows).

What is your position at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

I am currently serving as an Assistant Geoscientist in the Conservation Survey Division at the School of Natural Resources. I am involved in projects exploring global water availability in the drylands, monitoring monthly groundwater level in the Nebraska Sandhills using satellite LiDAR, and evaluating restoration practices using satellite and ground-based sensors.

What drew you to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

I am drawn to the multidisciplinary research opportunities and support at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The university offers a rich environment that enhances my professional skills and helps me achieve my career goals.

What aspect of working in an educational setting do you enjoy the most?

I particularly enjoy interacting with faculty and students as well as the freedom to develop and pursue my own research ideas and agenda.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

I consider my recent work on spatio-temporal mesic vegetation mapping to be a significant achievement. Additionally, I view the strong relationships I've developed with my peers and friends as another important success.

What is something that most people don’t know about you?

I enjoy playing guitar, but public speaking terrifies me.

What is your life like outside of work?

I enjoy watching soccer matches, although I haven't played in a while. Most of my time is spent with my family, engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or biking whenever possible.

More details at: https://snr.unl.edu/aboutus/who/people/faculty-member.aspx?pid=2491